Best Way to Get from NYC to Cape Cod

Are you looking for the best way to get from NYC to Cape Cod?

I used to spend a lot of time in Cape Cod with friends. It was one of our favorite trips together and a reason to get out of the city and spend quality time with each other.

However, we always needed help with planning a way to get there. Who would drive? If we didn't have a car, how would we get there?

It almost seemed impossible until we started researching and soon realized there were several ways to get from NY to Cape Cod. And I am here to share them all with you. Even if you don't have a car.

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Best Way to Get from NYC to Cape Cod

With its scenic beauty, charming villages, and lovely beaches, Cape Cod is an ideal weekend escape on the east coast or extended vacation destination.

The good news is several options for traveling between Manhattan and Cape Cod.

Traveling between Manhattan and Cape Cod By Car

Driving from NYC to Cape Cod

To get from Manhattan to Cape Cod by car, you can take Interstate 95 (I-95) North for a more straightforward journey.

From Manhattan, head north on the FDR Drive to I-95, and continue along I-95 until you reach Providence, Rhode Island. At this point, merge onto Interstate 195 (I-195) East towards Cape Cod.

Take I-195 to MA 25/28 South and cross the Bourne Bridge if you're heading for Falmouth and Woods Hole.

For destinations like Sandwich or Hyannis, take US 6 East just before the Bourne Bridge, and this will lead you north and east to the Sagamore Bridge, where you cross the canal.

Remember that traffic can be heavy during peak summer months, so it's a good idea to monitor traffic updates regularly and consider alternative routes if necessary.

Taking the Scenic Route to Cape Cod

If you're looking for a more scenic route, consider incorporating a stop in Newport, Rhode Island, and Plymouth, Massachusetts, during your road trip to Cape Cod from NYC.

From Manhattan, drive along I-95 North until reaching Newport, where you can spend an hour exploring the town's historic sites and picturesque harbor.

After you visit Newport, continue your journey and drive to Plymouth, Massachusetts, the site of the historic Plymouth Rock.

After spending about an hour in Plymouth, continue east for about 42 minutes to arrive at your Cape Cod destination.

New York to Cape Cod By Plane

Flights from JFK to Cape Cod

When flying from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in Queens to Cape Cod, you have a few options. JetBlue Airways operates nonstop flights from JFK to Barnstable Municipal Airport in Hyannis (HYA) on Cape Cod. The nonstop flight takes just over an hour.

In addition to JetBlue, you can benefit from connecting flights through regional airlines like Cape Air. Cape Air offers flights from JFK to Nantucket (ACK), another popular destination within Cape Cod.

Their flights are comfortable, with typically fewer seats, providing a more intimate travel experience.

Check for the latest prices and flight schedules for JetBlue and Cape Air, as they can vary throughout the year or use google flights to track prices.

Flights from Newark to Cape Cod

If you're flying from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), you can still reach Cape Cod by air. JetBlue Airways also provides an option for a direct flight from Newark to Hyannis (HYA).

Similar to flights from JFK, you can consider Cape Air for flights between Newark and ACK. While JetBlue flights offer more seating options, Cape Air tends to provide a more private and personalized experience.

Flying to Cape Cod from New York City is a convenient and fast way to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and charming towns that await you.

Traveling to Cape Cod By Train: New York to Cape Cod Train

Train Travel From NYC to Cape Cod on Amtrak

Traveling from New York City to Cape Cod by train is comfortable and scenic. Catch an Amtrak train from New York Penn Station to begin your journey. You have two options for Amtrak services: the high-speed Acela or the relatively more affordable Northeast Regional trains.

Both services will take you to South Station in Boston, your transfer point for your onward journey to Cape Cod via the CapeFlyer, ferry or bus.

• Acela: The high-speed Acela trains provide a faster and more luxurious traveling experience. The journey from New York Penn Station to Boston South Station takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
• Northeast Regional: Consider taking the Northeast Regional service if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option. The travel time from New York Penn Station to Boston South Station is around 4 hours and 15 minutes.

CapeFLYER

After arriving at Boston South Station, you must transfer to the CapeFLYER train to proceed to Cape Cod. The CapeFLYER runs on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day and takes you directly to Hyannis on Cape Cod.

The travel time from Boston South Station to Hyannis is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Getting to Cape Cod By Bus

Peter Pan Bus Lines

Buses from New York City to Cape Cod are convenient and affordable. Choosing Peter Pan Bus Lines will allow you to reach Cape Cod comfortably, with frequent express service to popular destinations such as Hyannis, Falmouth, Provincetown, and Woods Hole.

🚐 Check availability for buses from NYC to Cape Cod here.

The Hyannis Transportation Center is its hub, easing transfers to other Cape Cod destinations or ferry connections to Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard.

Typically, the buses depart from the New York Port Authority Bus Terminal and connect through Providence, Rhode Island, before reaching the Hyannis Transportation Center. The fastest travel time travel from New York to Cape Cod is around 6.25 hours, while some trips take 7 hours. One-way fares can range between $63 and $73.

Alternative Bus Services

While Peter Pan is the dominant bus service from NYC to Cape Cod, you may also consider Greyhound Lines for their collaboration with Peter Pan to offer about 7 daily bus trips between these two points. These buses also travel via Providence, offering similar travel times and fares as Peter Pan Bus Lines.

Getting to Cape Cod From New York By Ferry

Ferry Services from NYC to Cape Cod

Although there isn't a direct ferry service from New York City to Cape Cod, you can make the trip by combining different modes of transportation.

First, take a bus or other ground transportation from NYC to Boston. This journey can take approximately 4-5 hours. Once you're in Boston, you can board a ferry to various points on Cape Cod.

Ferry Services from Boston to Cape Cod

If you're starting your journey in Boston, several ferry options are available to get you to Cape Cod.

• From Boston to Provincetown: You can take a Boston to Provincetown ferry for a direct route to Cape Cod. This service is easily accessible from Boston Logan Airport, subway stations, and major Boston highways. Two companies offer this service: Bay State Cruise Company and Boston Harbor Cruises.

🛥 Check availability for the ferry from Boston to Cape Cod here.

• From Boston to Falmouth: Another option is to take a ferry from Boston to Falmouth, a town on Cape Cod. This trip allows you to explore more of the Cape before heading to its popular islands.

Travel Planning

Getting To Cape Cod From NYC: Transportation Combinations

As discussed, when planning your trip from New York City to Cape Cod, you have a few transportation options to consider.

There are several ways to get there: by plane, subway, train, bus, or car. The recommended option is flying from any of the NYC airports to Hyannis (HYA), in as little as 1 hour.

The cheapest option, however, is taking a train from Manhattan to Cape Cod.

If you prefer a direct bus, one option would be a direct bus from New York City to Cape Cod, which can be found in the travel planner. Alternatively, you could opt for a combination of trains and buses that involve transfers.

Finally driving is another option for those that have a car and it is a great opportunity to make a road trip out of it with stop in different cities and towns along the way.

Cape Cod Bay Accommodations

Planning your accommodations is essential once you have decided on a transportation method. Your choice of accommodation in Cape Cod may depend on the proximity to transportation hubs, like airports or bus stations, as well as amenities like WiFi and parking.

Don't forget to consider the attractions you'd like to visit while on Cape Cod. Being situated near popular tourist sites could save you transportation time and expenses.

Attractions

Cape Cod offers a variety of attractions for visitors. While en route from New York City, consider stopping in cities like Boston or Providence to explore their respective attractions.

For travelers looking to maximize their time in Cape Cod, prioritizing attractions based on proximity and personal interests will make your trip more enjoyable.

Planning Your Visit to Cape Cod

Best Time to Visit Cape Cod

When planning your trip from NYC to Cape Cod, consider the best time to visit this charming destination. The most popular and warmest season is between June and September, but remember that this is also the most crowded and expensive time for accommodations and restaurants.

If you're looking for budget-friendly options and fewer crowds, visiting Cape Cod during the shoulder seasons of May and September might be a better choice.

Exploring Cape Cod on Bicycle

One of the most enjoyable ways to explore Cape Cod is by bicycle. With numerous bike trails available, you can easily access different parts of the region at your own pace. This eco-friendly and budget-conscious option allows you to fully appreciate Cape Cod's natural beauty.

To make the most of your cycling experience, consider renting a bicycle from one of the many rental shops in the area.

FAQs: Booking a Getaway to Cape Cod From NYC

Best Way to Get from NYC to Cape Cod for a Long Weekend

Overall, there are plenty of options from NYC to Cape Cod for a long weekend. Whether you opt for the train and rent a car or take advantage of direct flights, with careful planning and research, your trip will be both enjoyable and memorable.

For those looking for an easy way to plan their visit in advance, our free Weekend Planner helps travelers organize transportation, accommodations, and attractions – all while staying within budget. Download it here.